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to have an interview with Mr. Bourg and himself. Francklin's letter to the Indians was as follows:—
"Fort Howe, 14 Sep., 1778.
"Brethren:—According to my promise last fall I have brought with me M. Bourg, your Priest, to instruct you and to take care of your eternal welfare.
"Brethren:—I am come to heal and adjust every difference that may subsist between you and your Brethren the faithful subjects of King George your father, my master.
"Brethren:—As my heart is good, my hands clean, and my intentions as white as snow, I desire Pierre Thomas and two or three other Principal Indians do immediately come down to Fort Howe with Mr. White my Deputy to speak to me and to M. Bourg, that we may settle in what manner to proceed to accomplish my good intentions towards you, and that your minds may be easy, I do hereby pledge myself that no harm shall happen to you from any of the King's Troops or others his Majesty's dutiful subjects. I am your affectionate Brother,
"Mich. Francklin,
Superintendent of Indian affairs.
"To Pierre Thomas and others
the Indians of the River St. John."
The Indians promptly accepted the invitation, and after the customary formalities and negotiations, prolonged for several days, a treaty was agreed upon which was satisfactory to all.[1]
The presence of Father Bourg, the priest, inspired the Indians with confidence, and his influence through-out the proceedings is very apparent. During the conference he read a letter from the Bishop of Quebec whereby he was forbidden to suffer any Indian to enter his church who should countenance, aid, or support, or hold any correspondence with his Majesty's rebellious subjects. Further if any Indians should disregard the instruction on this head their names were to be transmitted to the Bishop who threatened to cast them out of the Church as disobedient and undutiful children.
Francklin terms the conference "A grand meeting of the Indians at Menaguashe, in the harbour of the River St. John near Fort Howe." There were present on the part of King George the Third, Michael Francklin,
- ↑ An account of the proceedings attending these negotiations is in the writer's possession. It was rescued from a pile of rubbish in the Chipman barn by one of the boys of the High School in April. 1897.